p11kit

P11Kit is a software library that provides a standard interface for accessing PKCS#11 modules, which are used for cryptographic operations. It is designed to simplify the process of integrating cryptographic hardware and software into applications. P11Kit is commonly used in Linux and Unix-like operating systems, and it is part of the FreeDesktop.org project.

The library provides a consistent API for applications to interact with PKCS#11 modules, regardless of the specific hardware or software implementation. This abstraction allows developers to write code that can work with a variety of cryptographic devices without needing to understand the underlying details of each module.

P11Kit supports a wide range of cryptographic operations, including encryption, decryption, digital signatures, and key management. It also includes features for handling certificates, CRLs (Certificate Revocation Lists), and other related data.

One of the key benefits of using P11Kit is its modular design. Applications can dynamically load and unload PKCS#11 modules at runtime, allowing for flexible and adaptable cryptographic solutions. This is particularly useful in environments where the available cryptographic hardware may change over time.

P11Kit is open-source software, released under the LGPL (Lesser General Public License). This licensing model allows it to be used in both open-source and proprietary applications, making it a versatile choice for developers. The library is maintained by a community of contributors and is widely used in various projects across the Linux ecosystem.